As Nigerians prepare to mark the Eid celebrations, the Federal Government has announced the deployment of additional train services to enhance mobility and ease travel pressure for millions journeying to key cities, particularly Lagos and Kano.
The Ministry of Transportation, in a statement released on Monday, confirmed that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) will operate extra trips on existing routes to accommodate the anticipated surge in passengers during the festive period. This strategic move aims to offer a safer, more affordable, and efficient alternative to road travel, which is often congested and risky during holidays.
According to the NRC’s Managing Director, Mr. Faruk Mahmud, the additional trains will serve major stations along the Abuja-Lagos and Abuja-Kano corridors, ensuring passengers can enjoy smooth connections between the Federal Capital Territory and these economic and cultural hubs.
“The Federal Government is committed to providing Nigerians with reliable and comfortable transport options during Eid,” Mahmud said. “We urge travelers to book early to secure seats as demand is expected to be high.”
The augmented services come as part of the government’s broader efforts to improve rail infrastructure and promote rail as a preferred mode of transport in the country’s National Transport Policy.
Passengers are advised to purchase tickets from authorized NRC offices or verified digital platforms to avoid fraud and ensure a seamless travel experience.
With these additional trains, the government hopes to reduce road traffic fatalities and ease the burden on highways, while fostering economic activities linked to festive travels.
The Ministry also pledged heightened security measures across stations and on trains, collaborating with security agencies to safeguard passengers throughout their journeys.
As Eid approaches, millions of Nigerians are encouraged to leverage these expanded train services to reunite with families and friends safely and comfortably.
